Are you afraid of being seen online? You’re not alone! There was a time when I couldn’t bear to turn on my video camera.

Nowadays, though, I constantly find myself urging people to take the plunge. Because the the water really is lovely! When you upgrade from voice-only to video, it’s like turning on the lights. It can dramatically improve relationships, reduce misunderstandings, and replace disputes with collaborative dialogue. And that’s before you even add Clean Language!

Our big event, Metaphorum, depends on video. When everyone switches their video on, it changes the energy from chalk-and-talk to real conversation.

It has big, practical impacts. For example, when someone wants to speak, you can see them move forward or wave their hand. People can vote with a quick “thumbs up”.

And with modern broadband, you can see more the subtle stuff, too, such as small facial expressions and gestures. That makes it much more straightforward to demonstrate coaching and similar processes as part of the event.

So, I want you to turn on your camera. What’s stopping you?

Are you worried about how you’ll look? Don’t be! Nobody’s expecting perfect glossy makeup on an everyday video call. This isn’t TV. And you only need to get dressed from the waist up 🙂

Hate seeing yourself on camera? With the best online video conference systems, like the one we use at Metaphorum, you can set things up so you don’t have to look at yourself during the conversation.

Are you worried about your surroundings? I’m fascinated! I love the fact that I can see the reality of people’s spaces: offices, kitchens, living rooms. Books, tools, hobby kit and pictures in the background make you more “real” than a neutral wall. Ask about other people’s and talk about yours to start some interesting conversations.

Worried about disruption from people and pets? OK, screaming kids don’t improve conversations in any circumstances. But at least with video switched on, people can understand what’s happening and make allowances. And unlike an in-person meeting, there are “mute audio” and “stop video” buttons for emergencies.

Are you afraid it won’t work? Try it! After all, what have you got to lose?

There’s a guide to persuading a reluctant colleague to switch on their video camera here.